Home How to repaint and durably protect rusted metal beams using just one product !
Renovate rusty steel profiles and metal structures with RD-Elastometal, our high-performance, water-based anti-rust coating.
A unique technology that requires no sandblasting, protecting steel for over 20 years in harsh industrial or marine environments!
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Products presented
RD-Elastometal 
High performance elastomeric coating combining superior anti-corrosion and waterproofing...
High performance elastomeric coating combining superior anti-corrosion and waterproofing...
RD-Eco Powerclean 
Powerful biodegradable alkaline concentrate composed of anti-flash rust additives for cleaning...
Powerful biodegradable alkaline concentrate composed of anti-flash rust additives for cleaning...
Repainting rusty metal with a single product in video
The problem
The surface of the old, rusted steel beams and profiles is rarely uniform. Some areas are covered with peeling paint, while others display deep craters caused by corrosion. In some places, rust remains hidden beneath layers of seemingly intact paint, while other sections still retain a coat of paint that adheres perfectly. In short, the surface of these objects is a patchwork of textures and conditions, bearing witness to wear and the passage of time.
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The sharp edges and corners are more prone to rusting because it is harder to properly coat them. The bolts and the joints between the beams are sensitive areas where rust develops more quickly, as water and moisture easily accumulate there.
Location also matters...
Moreover, painting work on objects in or near occupied areas usually means danger, discomfort, and closure of the affected zones, which can lead to a halt in operations.
If the work is at height, to be done by rope access, or in confined spaces, the use of solvent-based and two-component products can cause numerous problems.
Traditional solvent-based anticorrosion systems often require sandblasting to be effective and multiple layers of different products. In the end, it’s expensive, dangerous, not always feasible, and takes more time.
Solvents are hazardous, can cause fires, and cause a lot of discomfort. When applied over existing paint, they can lead to peeling.
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La solution
RD-Elastometal
RD-Elastometal is a unique product that offers unmatched performance and longevity. Water-based and single-component, it combines excellent sealing and anti-corrosion properties.
With over 200% elasticity, RD-Elastometal can flex and bend over any type of surface on which it is applied and adhere to it durably. It truly seals off access to air and water to the metal and bridges cracks and connections between different beams or metal elements.
Its slightly viscous consistency allows it to perfectly cover and protect sharp edges, ends, bolts, rivets, etc. Traditional paints often struggle in these areas, and rust appears quickly.
Dryfall Paint
This type of paint is specially formulated so that the paint particles that fall during spray application turn into a dry powder that can easily be swept or vacuumed up. Dryfall paint reduces the risk of stains or damage to surrounding surfaces, making cleanup after application easier.
Due to its consistency, when the surface is uneven, RD-Elastometal covers everything very easily and helps to hide all these imperfections.
RD-Elastometal is generally applied in just two coats, directly on most substrates. No primer or topcoat is needed, it’s UV-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors starting from 1kg!
Reduced Surface Preparation Costs
Thanks to our technology, sandblasting or stripping steel to SA 2 ½ becomes optional, which not only leads to significant cost savings but also greatly reduces waste, environmental impact, and the risks associated with these surface preparation methods.
High-pressure cleaning is generally sufficient to ensure exceptional performance. This is a major advantage for complex and hard-to-reach structures.
And when high-pressure cleaning is not possible, manual or mechanical cleaning (type ST2) is also perfectly acceptable.
What about surfaces that are still painted?
RD-Elastometal is tolerant; old paint layers that adhere well can remain in place and be coated over.
More Safety and Less Pollution
Using water-based paints also eliminates the risk of fire or explosion on site. The products are non-flammable and do not require thinners or cleaning solvents. Water is all what is needed to clean the tools.
Fewer VOCs also mean less air pollution and reduced harm to workers.
System(s)
C5 Environment according to ISO 12944-6
Inside: Buildings or areas with almost permanent condensation and high pollution levels.
Outside: Industrial areas with high humidity and aggressive atmospheres, and coastal areas with high salinity.
Estimated system lifespan: minimum 15 years in a C5 environment or 25 years in a C4 environment.
| Product | Consumption | Dry film | |||
| 1st layer | RD-Elastometal | 0,40 kg/m² 130 s/f-g | 175 µ 7 mils | ||
| 2nd layer | RD-Elastometal | 0,40 kg/m² 130 s/f-g | 175 µ 7 mils | ||
C4 Environment according to ISO 12944-6
Inside: Chemical plants, swimming pools, coastal shipyards.
Outside: Industrial areas and coastal areas with moderate salinity.
Estimated system lifespan: minimum 15 years.
| Product | Consumption | Dry film | |||
| 1st layer | RD-Elastometal | 0,35 kg/m² 170 s/f-g | 175 µ 7 mils | ||
| 2nd layer | RD-Elastometal | 0,35 kg/m² 170 s/f-g | 175 µ 7 mils | ||
Choose different colours between the first and second coats! RD-Elastometal has strong coverage. Using different colours between coats ensures that every area is properly treated.
Application conditions and work preparation
Environmental conditions (general requirements) :
• Minimum air and substrate temperatures: 10°C / 50°F for 24 hours.
• Maximum surface temperature: 55°C / 130°F.
• Maximum relative humidity: 80%.
• Surface temperature must be at least 3°C / 5°F above dew point.
• No threat of rain for 3 hours.
/!\ Notes
• There must be no condensation on the surface during application and drying. Caution when working at the beginning or end of the season!
• Overnight drying between coats is generally recommended. However, drying rates for water-based coatings depend on temperature, humidity and wind.
• From 15°C / 59°F, working conditions are comfortable and enable higher productivity.
• If the project is located in a very hot area with very intense sunshine during the day, avoid applying the system when the sun is most intense on the surface, and prefer to work early in the morning, late in the afternoon or in the shade.
• If the application takes place in a confined or closed space, ensure continuous ventilation during application and drying for optimal drying.
Surface preparation
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Grease, oil, bird droppings, and other dirt are scraped off and removed manually.
Flaking paint and rust are cleaned manually.
Accepted methods and standards :
• High-pressure washer with a rotating nozzle (0° angle), minimum 300 bar / 4000 psi.
• High-pressure cleaning according to SSPC SP12 WJ4 or ISO 8501-4 Wa 1 standard.
• Manual or mechanical rust removal ST2 – ISO 8501-1 / SSPC SP2 or SP3.
• Abrasive blasting to SA 2 ½ - ISO 8501-1.
In the end, the surface must always be clean, dry, degreased, and free of any contaminants.
Existing Paints
Paints that withstand high-pressure cleaning (> 300 bar / 4000 psi) can generally remain and be coated over with RD-Elastometal.
If the remaining paint film is very smooth or glossy, it is recommended to sand it to increase roughness.
If there are doubts about compatibility with our systems, don't hesitate to perform a preliminary test.
Direct Environment
Check for the presence of chimneys or ventilation outlets that could expel contaminants onto the surface to be treated. Neutralize their effects during the work.
RD-Eco Powerclean
Using it just before application ensures that the surface is properly cleaned and degreased. This is particularly important when dealing with stubborn dirt, oils, greases, pollution on the surface, or if there’s a significant time lapse between surface preparation and the start of application.
Welds
Clean and degrease visible welds with RD-Eco PowerClean. If they are new and/or very shiny, sand them mechanically to increase roughness.
Remove residues from welding products (cleaners, oils, contaminants, etc.).
Application Steps
Sharp Edges, Bolts, and Rivets
In case of corrosion or bare metal, apply a coat of RD-Elastometal with a brush on these elements.
Openings, Gaps, and Joints
Apply a coat of RD-Elastometal with a brush in narrow spaces and joints connecting beams. Larger openings of several millimetres/mils should then be filled with a sealant like RD-Acryl W or MS Polymer (never use a silicone-based sealant!).
Welding
Apply a coat of RD-Elastometal with a brush on the welding.
Main Application
1. Apply a coat of RD-Elastometal according to the prescribed thicknesses over the entire surface.
Allow to dry for approximately 6 hours, depending on weather conditions.
2. Apply a second coat of RD-Elastometal according to the prescribed thicknesses over the entire surface.
Allow to dry for approximately 6 hours, depending on weather conditions.
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Application material
RD-Elastometal
Brush
Airless device: minimum pressure 180 bar / 2600 psi. Nozzle opening: 0.015 - 0.023 in.
RD-Eco Powerclean
Low-pressure sprayer. Allow to work, then rinse.
RD-Acryl W
Caulking gun
Tool cleaning
Clean with clean water only.
Product application
RD-Elastometal
Ready-to-use product. Stir mechanically a few minutes before application. Do not dilute.
Drying time: (20°C - 68°F)
Touch-dry: +/- 3 hours
Recoatable: +/- 6 hours
RD-Eco PowerClean
Dilute between 5 and 20% in water, depending on degree of soiling. Spray on and leave for 15 minutes. Then rinse with a high-pressure cleaner.
RD-Acryl W
Drying time: (20°C - 68°F)
Skin formation: 7 minutes
Touch dry: 15 minutes
Recoatable: 24 hours or when fully dry.
VERS. S16-241108